Ava Gilchrist
The easy, throw-on appeal of linen trousers has taken the fashion world by storm, and as we embrace the spring and summer seasons of 2025, these trousers continue to dominate our wardrobes in a big way. From the runway to the celeb style circuit, linen trousers are everywhere, capturing our attention with their ability to elevate looks. As we reach for them more and more, it's right time we had a discussion about the best shoes to wear with linen trousers.
As a former devotee of midi dresses, even I have succumbed to the allure of this polished wardrobe hero. However, when it comes to styling linen trousers, finding the perfect footwear can be a bit of a challenge. But fret not, as I've delved into the world of trouser-and-shoe pairings to provide you with all the inspiration and confidence you need to choose the right duo for you.
Much like wide-leg trousers, linen trousers can initially pose a styling conundrum, one that has left me wondering about the best shoe choices for them. Unsurprisingly, I'm not alone in this quest, as the search for "shoes to wear with linen trousers" has seen a recent surge in popularity. Fortunately, the stylishly blessed denizens of Instagram and TikTok are serving up a feast of linen trouser outfits, offering a masterclass on how to wear them this summer. Whether you opt for ankle-grazing lengths, wide-legs or puddle hems, the style set have curated an array of footwear options suitable for every linen-trouser moment that awaits in your future.
So, without further ado, let's explore the best shoes to wear with linen trousers, from chunky flip flops to ballet flats, slingback shoes to kitten heels, and much more.
9 Chic Shoes to Wear With Linen Trousers
1. Flip-Flops
Style Notes: For those seeking a laid-back yet fashion-forward choice, chunky flip flops like The Row's Ginza pair are an excellent choice. The exaggerated sole adds a modern twist to the classic flip-flop design. Opt for a neutral or metallic shade to effortlessly pair with your linen trousers for an effortlessly cool ensemble.
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These come in eight different shades and from size XXS to 4XL.
The style that reignited our obsession with flip flops is back for another season.
2. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Looking for a timeless and feminine shoe option? Ballet flats are a perfect match for linen trousers. Their elegant silhouette complements the relaxed nature of linen, creating a sophisticated and refined look. Whether in traditional black leather or bright satin, ballet flats have the power to elevate any classic trouser outfit.
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These have the structure and hold of tailored wool trousers, so you don't have to deal with the nightmare of ironing.
Two-toned ballet pump is such a French girl wardrobe staple.
3. Pointed-Toe Mules
Style Notes: For a chic interpretation, pointed-toe mules are a go-to shoe option to wear with linen trousers. The sleek design provides comfort but also an element of contrast making it balance out the fluidity of your linen strides.
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While Parisienne style muse Sylive Mus wears a pair from Australian brand Faithful The Brand, we can't pass up the slouchy but structured Olina Linen trousers from Reformation.
Make like Carrie Bradshaw and invest in a pair that will always endure.
4. Sleek Trainers
Style Notes: For a sporty yet fashion-forward aesthetic, trainers are a perfect choice to pair with linen trousers. While many trainer trends have emerged in 2025, sleek kicks add a side of casual cool to your outfit while providing all-day comfort. Opt for classic white trainers for a clean and timeless look or experiment with colourful trainers for a playful and eye-catching ensemble. Whatever you do, keep them streamlined to avoid interfering with the way your linen trousers hang.
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The soft pleat adds such an elevated touch to a more casual fabric.
Green is one of the biggest colour trends for spring 2025 making this a sure investment in our books.
5. Slingbacks
Style Notes: Slingback shoes, especially those of the kitten-heel variety bridge the gap between polish and practicality, making them a great choice for linen trousers. This shoe style features a strap around the back of the heel, offering a secure fit while maintaining a sleek appearance that loans itself so well to floaty linen trousers. Like mules, anything with more coverage would run the risk of looking too clunky set against them, so slingbacks present the perfect middle-ground solution.
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The lightweight fabric of these COS pants demands to be taken on a summer vacation.
The Gucci crystal slingbacks are the definition of iconic and Who What Wear UK's editors can't get enough of this beloved style.
6. Slides
Style Notes: When it comes to embracing the relaxed nature of linen trousers, flat slide sandals are the epitome of laid-back style. These minimalist sandals offer comfort and ease while allowing your trousers to take centre stage. A chunky pair will also help balance out wide-leg silhouettes.
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This version doesn't have the same barrel leg finish, but the soft khaki colour is such a nice neutral that's an alternative to white or black.
Emme Parson shoes are amongst some of the best on the market, and these slides are handmade in Tuscany for the utmost quality.
7. Platform Soles
Style Notes: Linen trousers can be on the long side so a petite styling tip is to give your outfit a literal boost with a pair of platform-sole shoes. Not only will they help balance out your frame, but they'll keep the hems of your trousers looking fresh and clean as they sit above the ground.
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An elevated basic if I ever saw one.
An affordable hybrid between the Givenchy Marshmallow wedges and the Bottega Veneta terry sandals.
8. Mesh Shoes
Style Notes: Harmonise your breathable linen trousers with the lightweight fabric that's dominating the shoe scene this season. Mesh shoes only growing in popularity with expensive-looking high-street styles cropping in Mango and designer iterations via Net-A-Porter alike. Personally, I love the Alaïa originals that kickstarted the trend.
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Available in size UK 4 to 24.
Such a great alternative to the luxury options you've been spotting.
9. Strappy Heels
Style Notes: Linen trousers often give your ensembles a more nonchalant finish as the soft fabric is less sturdy than other materials. To dress up your silhouette, reach for strappy heels which will imbue your look with an effortless resort-ready touch à la Slim Aarons.
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Pair with a sheer top—one of the major shirt trends of 2025—to balance out the broad hem of this wide-leg style.
A.Emery sandals are so beloved, and this gilded style feels ready to be trotted around a beachside town.
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